mineral

Polished brecciated jasper

Jasper, an opaque microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide and possibly manganese-rich inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 6.5–7, opaque, with a dull to vitreous polish and irregular tan, brown, gray, black, and cream breccia-like patterns. Quartz is cryptocrystalline, so individual crystals and cleavage are absent; specific gravity is about 2.5–2.7.

Identified August 21, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished brecciated jasper
Scientific name: Jasper, an opaque microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide and possibly manganese-rich inclusions
Category: mineral
Identified: August 21, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common palm-sized polished piece; roughly $30–$100+ for larger, highly patterned, or locality-labeled specimens.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater replaces or cements fine sediment, volcanic material, or fractured rock, with iron and manganese producing the dark and brown colors. The exact geological age cannot be determined from the image; jasper occurs in many Precambrian to younger formations.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, palm stones, carvings, beads, and ornamental objects; occasionally used as decorative stone. It has modest collecting value unless the pattern, polish, or locality is especially attractive.

Geological facts

The contrasting angular patches indicate brecciation or multiple silica-rich generations rather than a uniform mineral crystal. Jasper is a variety of chalcedony/quartz, though its opaque appearance comes from abundant impurities.

Field identification & locations

Common in volcanic and sedimentary terrains worldwide, including the United States, Mexico, Madagascar, Brazil, India, and Australia. Field identification relies on opacity, waxy-to-glassy polish, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and resistance to dilute acid; the specimen appears shaped and polished.